ST. CHARLES, MO. — Lindenwood University’s Campus Activities Board partnered with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention this weekend to host an Out of the Darkness Walk, bringing students, families and community members together to raise awareness about suicide prevention and mental health support.
The annual walk, organized nationwide by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, is designed to create a space for remembrance, advocacy and healing for those affected by suicide.
“The Out of the Darkness Walk is offered by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention so we can come together as a community to support mental wellness,” said Kristi Tucciarone a professor of advertising and public reltations, “It’s also to support those people who have thought about committing suicide, those who have taken their life by suicide, and the families affected by that loss.”
For many attendees, the event carried deep personal meaning. Tucciarone shared the story of her brother, who died by suicide at age 31 after years of physical and emotional strain from working as an undercover drug enforcement agent in St. Louis.
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“He was physically hit by cars, multiple cars, battering rams,” Tucciarone said. “That kind of undercover job took a toll on him. The pain became unbearable, and when doctors told him there was nothing more they could do, it changed everything.”
Others participated to share their own mental health journeys and encourage others to seek help.
“I’m here today to support myself because I am a victim of suicidal thoughts,” said Allison Higgins. “Thankfully, I have never harmed myself, but I have had significant thoughts about it. I just want people to know that they are not alone.”
Higgins said it took time for her to recognize the importance of reaching out, but she now hopes her story can remind others that help is available.
“If you are struggling with mental health, please go and get the help that you need,” Higgins said. “No one is ever alone.”
Lindenwood University offers several mental health resources for students. The Student Resource and Counseling Center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the third floor of Evans Commons. After hours, students experiencing a mental health crisis can call 833-646-1526. For immediate emergency support, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day.
The Out of the Darkness Walk served as both a memorial and a message of hope: that conversations about mental health save lives, and support is always within reach.
